Reckless Driving
SDCL § 32-24-1 — reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, careless driving a Class 2, and a second reckless within a year takes the license for thirty days
Driving carelessly and heedlessly in disregard of the rights or safety of others, or at a speed or in a manner likely to endanger any person or property, is reckless driving, a Class 1 misdemeanor. It applies on a highway, an alley, a park, or the grounds of a school or college.
Driving carelessly and without due caution so as to endanger a person or property, short of reckless driving, is careless driving, a Class 2 misdemeanor.
A second within a year. For a second or later reckless driving conviction within one year, the court revokes the driving privilege for thirty days, and may allow driving for work, school or counseling on proof of financial responsibility.
The line between careless and reckless is drawn in court. A particular charge is a question for a licensed South Dakota attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- SDCL § 32-24-1 — Definition of reckless driving; Misdemeanor
- SDCL § 32-24-3 — Reckless driving; Second or subsequent offense as misdemeanor; Revocation of driving privilege; Restricted driving privilege
- SDCL § 32-24-8 — Definition of careless driving; Misdemeanor
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed South Dakota attorney.